Boston Marathon stories are popping up all over the web today after a successful race on Monday, but two of those stories are a bit unexpected.

The race had America glued to the television last year after news broke that bombs had gone off, and this year the security was heavily tightened. The threat of more violence didn’t deter runners this year, however, as a near-record 35,660 people signed up to take part. Included in that number were two familiar faces: Joe McIntyre and Danny Wood of New Kids On The Block.

The duo proudly finished the race and tweeted to their fans afterward, with fellow New Kid Donnie Wahlberg giving updates on the social media site during the run.

Got to see @DannyWood, @joeymcintyre & @JWahlly all come across the finish line! Along with thousands of other amazing people! So #Proud!

— Donnie Wahlberg (@DonnieWahlberg) April 21, 2014

Hugged @DannyWood at the finish line, directly in front of the Copley trolley station, where Danny I break danced in High School 30 yrs ago!

— Donnie Wahlberg (@DonnieWahlberg) April 21, 2014

Look at this guy flying!!! Go Joey!!! #RunJoeyRun @joeymcintyre @DonnieWahlberg pic.twitter.com/B5Fy9hU66j

— AlabamyChelle (@MyBlueWorld777) April 21, 2014

The horrific events of last year were at the front of everyone’s minds this time around, but Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick ensured those in attendance that every precaution was taken to keep them safe, including bans on bags, glass bottles, and large containers of any kind.

“We’re very alert. We’re very prepared, and we’re assuring people as much as we can that it’ll be a fun day and a safe one,” he said.

The day was more about showing Boston pride than about fear, however, and at least one runner decided to commemorate the day by ending it on a sweet note. Gregory Picklesimer dropped to one knee after finishing the race and proposed to his girlfriend, later saying, “After last year I realized the people you love can be taken away from you.”

Finish line proposal: "after last year I realized the people you love can be taken away from you" #wbz pic.twitter.com/aOF2I04JAO

— Paula Ebben (@PaulaEbbenWBZ) April 21, 2014

Image via YouTube